Walk-ins at Cardigan to ease pressure on hospital A&E departments

A spokesperson for Hywel Dda University Health Board said the move was in response to "unprecedented demand" and intends to relieve pressure of the hospital system.

"The Same Day Urgent Care Service at Cardigan Integrated Care Centre is led by advanced nurse practitioners who can assess, diagnose and treat walk-in patients who are then able to return home the same day, with a plan of care involving referrals to other services if necessary," said a statement from the Health Board.

"Our hospitals are currently dealing with unprecedented demand, which is leading to significant delays in care provision and long waits in A&E.

"If you have a condition which could be seen and treated at Cardigan’s Integrated Care Centre, we would strongly encourage you to attend as you can be seen more quickly, as well as helping to relieve pressure on the hospital system."

Advanced nurse practitioners will be available to see and treat the following:

• Chest infections

• Wound infections

• Tonsillitis / sore throat

• Ear infections

• Minor chest/ hip/ pelvic/ back injuries – Patient must be able to mobilise

• Minor Head Injury

• Non-cardiac chest pain

• Skin complaints including rashes, infections, and sunburn

• Sprains, strains & soft tissue injuries

• Hay fever, mild allergic reactions

• Minor injuries - cuts, wounds

• Minor eye injuries, complaints and irritations requiring irrigation, and Chemical eye injury

• Emergency contraception

• Suspected fractures and injuries to knee, lower leg, ankle, and feet

• Suspected fractures and injuries to arms

• Animal, insect, or human bites

• Minor burns & scalds

• Removal of foreign bodies from eyes, ears, nose & skin

Patients who have a more urgent care need or in a medical emergency should dial 999.

To speak with a triage nurse at the centre first to discuss your condition, please call 01239 803 075.